[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 14 (Thursday, February 10, 2005)]
[Senate]
[Page S1256]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       FAREWELL TO JOE F. COLVIN

  Mr. DOMENICI. Mr. President, I would like to recognize the 
significant achievements of Joe F. Colvin, who is retiring as president 
and chief executive officer of the Nuclear Energy Institute, and 
acknowledge his many noteworthy contributions in building a strong 
future for nuclear energy, America's largest emission-free electricity 
source.
  As chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, it 
has been my distinct pleasure to work closely with Mr. Colvin and his 
organization. I can personally attest to his leadership in guiding the 
nuclear energy industry through a period of extraordinary renaissance.
  Mr. Colvin has provided more than 40 years of service to our Nation, 
first as a submarine office in the U.S. Navy and later in the 
commercial nuclear energy industry.
  When he took the helm at NEI in 1996, conventional thinking was that 
the industry was stagnant and nuclear power had no future in America's 
energy mix. He rejected that view and tirelessly worked to advance 
nuclear energy's true capabilities--its proven safety, its contribution 
to our environment and its affordability.
  After more than 20 years of debate, Congress passed legislation in 
2002 designating Yucca Mountain as the site of Nation's used fuel 
repository giving our Nation clear direction for our used fuel 
management program.
  Today, America's nuclear plants are now recognized as the significant 
assets they are, and the nuclear energy industry is more competitive 
than ever. In addition, several companies are testing an improved 
licensing process for new nuclear power plants.
  Although Mr. Colvin is quick to acknowledge the accomplishments of 
others, his own work on behalf of the nuclear energy industry has paid 
enormous dividends. Through frequent testimony before congressional 
committees, conversations with senior Government officials and 
countless others, he has educated many about the value of nuclear 
energy and the promise it holds.
  Hence, it is with mixed emotions that I wish Mr. Colvin, a great 
University of New Mexico Lobo, all the best in his retirement from the 
Nuclear Energy Institute. He has earned a well-deserved respite.

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